What Is Menopause?

Menopause marks the end of the reproductive years of a woman’s life.

Occurring usually between 45 and 60 years of age. As the number of oocytes carries reaches their endpoint with a marked decrease in oestrogen and progesterone.

The transition into menopause, called perimenopause commonly lasts for 2-3 years with common signs of irregular menstrual cycles, skin changes, mood changes and memory loss, insomnia, fatigue, vaginal dryness, changes in libido, night sweats, hot sweats which may be moderate to debilitating in their effects.

Menopause is confirmed with the cessation of periods for 12 months with consistently elevated serum FSH levels and low serum oestradiol.

• Absent Menstruation for at least 12 months
• Hot Flushes of the Face, neck and upper trunk, which may be accompanied by palpitations, dizziness and headaches.
• Night Sweats, which may contribute to depression and irritability.
• Cold Hands and Feet
• Sleep disturbances and insomnia
• Mood changes such as depression, irritability, tension
• Memory impairment and loss of ability to concentrate
• Skin changes including loss of skin tone.
• Weight gain

Factors that may hasten the timing of menopause and worsen the symptoms experienced include.

• Premature ovarian failure
• Hysterectomy retaining the ovaries (thought to advance menopause by approximately 2 years.)

Suggestions to help you in the management of your menopause:

• Consume dietary Phyto-oestrogens to manage symptoms and prevent cardiovascular, skeletal and cancer risks of ageing.
• Foods that contain Phyto-oestrogens are soy beans, tofu, tempeh, sesame seeds, wheat, berries, oats, barley, dried beans, lentils, rice, alfalfa, mung beans, apples, carrots.
• Regular weight bearing and aerobic exercise supports fat burning, muscle strength and bone density.
• Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine can help reduce menopausal symptoms.
• Reduced caffeine and alcohol consumption.
• Relaxation techniques can help reduce symptoms associated with menopause.
• Helpful relaxation techniques are meditation, gentle yoga, walking in nature, listening to some meditation tapes or soft music.
• Having a cup of white rabbit menopause tea whilst reading a book with a snack.

Supporting your digestive system with a probiotic, make sure you have the right strain for your individual requirements.

Herbs that are beneficial are Rehmannia, Zizziphus, Motherwort, Yarrow, St Johns Wort, Sage and Wild Yam.

Key nutrients such as vitamin C and activated B group vitamins required to support neurotransmitter and adrenal hormone synthesis, activity, and sensitivity.

Journeywork is also helpful to cope with stress...